IRS Phasing Out Paper Checks & Individuals Enrolling in EFTPS Before October 17, 2025

IRS Phasing Out Paper Checks

Starting September 30, 2025, the IRS will begin phasing out paper refund checks to individual taxpayers to help reduce the risk of lost, stolen, delayed or altered paper checks, speed delivery of refunds, and lower administrative costs for the IRS.  After that date, refunds will generally be required to be delivered electronically, such as via direct deposit.

For taxpayers who lack bank accounts or face other obstacles with electronic banking, the IRS will provide alternatives such as prepaid debit cards or digital wallets.

 For Those Who Want to Make Estimated Payments via EFTPS

If individuals want to enroll in EFTPS (Electronic Federal Tax Payments System) to pay estimated taxes or balance-due payments, now is the last chance to do so.  After October 17, 2025, individuals will no longer be able to enroll in EFTPS.  Instead, they will need to use other IRS payment methods such as Direct Pay, IRS2Go, or debit/credit card processors.

This only applies to individuals, not businesses.